Why Did My 5-Week-Old Mastiff Puppy Vomit a Bone and Small Rock?

Dear VetBabble: Understanding Why My Young Mastiff Puppy Threw Up a Bone and Small Rock

Question:

I’m worried about my 5 week old Mastiff puppy. She recently vomited and, to my surprise, there was a bone and a small rock in her vomit. What should I do? I’m concerned that there may be more objects inside of her.

Answer:

Dear concerned puppy parent, we completely understand how seeing your young mastiff puppy throw up something as concerning as a bone and rock can make you anxious. You’re not alone and many pet owners like yourself have had to deal with similar situations. I’m here to provide some insight on what you can do and when it’s crucial to seek help from a professional.

1. Understanding Puppy’s Unusual Eating Habits

First, let’s consider why puppies might ingest non-food items. This behavior, known as pica, can be common in puppies and is usually due to curiosity. Even so, it can also potentially indicate some health issues, such as dietary deficiencies or certain disease conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your puppy’s eating habits and prevent access to objects that might pose a risk. Our article on Foreign Bodies: I Think My Pet Ate Something It Shouldn’t! provides more in-depth information.

2. Deciphering Vomiting in Dogs

When dogs vomit, it’s usually a sign that they’re trying to expel something that’s irritating, harmful, or undigestible. Though it can be alarming to witness, occasional vomiting isn’t uncommon with dogs. However, frequent or severe vomiting can be a sign of more grave issues. Your puppy’s vomiting, paired with the discovery of a bone and rock, could suggest that an object may be partially or entirely blocking her gastrointestinal tract. In such events, prompt medical attention is necessary. For more on the causes, treatment, and when to worry about dog vomiting, read our comprehensive article on Vomiting in Dogs .

3. Observing Your Puppy’s Behavior

Watch your puppy closely for signs of distress such as persistent vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty passing feces — all symptoms of possible obstruction. If your puppy seems overly tired or uncharacteristically lethargic, it could be a significant indicator that something is wrong, such as possible ingestion of a foreign object, infection, or other health concerns. We explore this further in our article Is My Puppy Tired or Lethargic? .

In conclusion, it’s crucial to be vigilant about your puppy’s behavior and ensure she doesn’t have access to potential harmful non-food items. However, if your puppy shows further signs of illness, please consult your vet immediately or visit an emergency pet clinic. They can perform further diagnostic tests like X-rays to determine if there’s a foreign body causing obstruction.

Remember, early intervention is essential to prevent more severe health issues. Be sure to provide plenty of appropriate chew toys for your puppy to explore with her mouth, and always keep an eye on her when she’s playing outside or in a new environment.

PS: If you’re planning to breed your Mastiff puppy when she reaches the appropriate age, you might find our article on Pregnancy in Dogs quite helpful!